U.S. patent application number 15/155984 was filed with the patent office on 2017-02-09 for frame assembly.
The applicant listed for this patent is MCS Industries, Inc.. Invention is credited to Brad William Huff, Matthew Scott Kressin, Weisha Yu.
Application Number | 20170035221 15/155984 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58053879 |
Filed Date | 2017-02-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170035221 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Huff; Brad William ; et
al. |
February 9, 2017 |
FRAME ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A frame apparatus for displaying a flat article and a combined
frame apparatus and flat article. In one aspect, the frame
apparatus comprises an annular display frame, a transparent front
panel, a rear panel, and an annular spacer frame. The annular
display frame comprises a rabbet defined by a floor and a wall, the
wall comprising a first engagement portion and a second engagement
portion. The annular spacer frame is coupled to the first and
second engagement portions of the annular display frame by
interaction between a first and second locking member of the
annular spacer frame and the first and second engagement portions
of the annular display frame. The first and second locking members
extend into the first and second engagement portions and apply a
compression force to retain a flat article between the transparent
front panel and the rear panel.
Inventors: |
Huff; Brad William;
(Nazareth, PA) ; Kressin; Matthew Scott;
(Allentown, PA) ; Yu; Weisha; (Belvidere,
NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MCS Industries, Inc. |
Easton |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58053879 |
Appl. No.: |
15/155984 |
Filed: |
May 16, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62200184 |
Aug 3, 2015 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 1/0605 20130101;
A47G 1/06 20130101; A47G 2001/0677 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47G 1/06 20060101
A47G001/06; A47G 1/14 20060101 A47G001/14 |
Claims
1-33. (canceled)
34. A frame apparatus for displaying an article, the frame
apparatus comprising: an annular display frame having an inner
surface defining a display opening, the annular display frame
comprising: a rabbet defined by a floor and a wall of the annular
frame; the wall of the rabbet comprising a first engagement portion
and a second engagement portion; a transparent front panel
positioned in the rabbet that encloses the display opening; a rear
panel positioned in the rabbet in a stack with the transparent
front panel; and an annular spacer frame having an inner surface
defining a central opening, the annular spacer frame positioned in
the rabbet, the first and second engagement portions engaging the
annular spacer frame to lock the annular spacer frame and the stack
in the rabbet.
35. The frame apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the first
engagement portion is a first engagement surface that faces the
floor of the rabbet and the second engagement portion is a second
engagement surface that faces the floor of the rabbet.
36. The frame apparatus according to claim 35 further comprising: a
first groove extending into the wall, the first groove defined at
least in part by the first engagement surface; the annular spacer
frame comprising an outer surface opposite the inner surface of the
annular spacer frame and a first locking tab protruding from the
outer surface of the annular spacer frame; and the first locking
tab of the annular spacer frame extending into the first groove and
engaging the first engagement surface of the annular display
frame.
37. The frame apparatus according to claim 36 further comprising:
the first locking tab comprising a first locking section and a
second locking section, the second locking section extending from
the first locking section in a non-parallel orientation; the first
groove comprising an entry section defined in part by the first
engagement surface and a receiving section defined at least in part
by a locking surface that is non-parallel to the first engagement
surface; and the first locking section located within the entry
section of the first groove and engaging the first engagement
surface and the second locking section located within the receiving
section and engaging the locking surface.
38. The frame apparatus according to claim 36 further comprising: a
second groove extending into the wall surface, the second groove
defined at least in part by the second engagement surface; the
annular spacer frame comprising a second locking tab protruding
from the outer surface of the annular spacer frame; and the second
locking tab of the annular spacer frame extending into the second
groove and engaging the second engagement surface of the annular
display frame.
39. The frame apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the annular
display frame has a greater rigidity than the annular spacer
frame.
40. The frame apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the annular
spacer frame can be flexed between: (1) a first state in which the
first and second engagement portions of the annular display frame
engage the annular spacer frame to lock the annular spacer frame
and the stack in the rabbet; and (2) a second state in which the
annular spacer frame disengages at least one of first and second
engagement portions to allow the stack to be removed from the
rabbet.
41. The frame apparatus according to claim 40 wherein the annular
spacer frame comprises at least one gripping element configured to
allow a user to grip the annular spacer and flex the annular spacer
frame from the first state to the second state; wherein the
gripping element comprises a gripping tab protruding from a rear
surface of the annular spacer frame; and wherein the gripping tab
terminates in a distal surface, the distal surface being flush or
depressed relative to a reference plane defined by a rear surface
of the annular display frame.
42. The frame apparatus according to claim 34 further comprising:
the rear panel being transparent; and the annular spacer frame
positioned in the rabbet so that the annular spacer frame is
concealed by the floor of the rabbet when viewed from a front
surface of the annular display frame.
43. The frame apparatus according to claim 42 wherein the inner
surface of the annular spacer frame is outwardly offset from the
inner surface of the annular display frame.
44. The frame apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the first and
second engagement portions engage the annular spacer frame to
maintain the stack under compression force when the annular spacer
frame and the stack are locked in the rabbet.
45. The frame apparatus according to claim 34 wherein the annular
spacer frame is formed by a plurality of elongate members that are
arranged in the rabbet to collectively define the annular spacer
frame.
46. A frame apparatus for displaying an article, the frame
apparatus comprising: an annular display frame having an inner
surface defining a display opening, the annular display frame
comprising: a rabbet defined by a floor and a wall of the annular
frame; a first groove in the wall of the rabbet; and a second
groove in the wall of the rabbet; a transparent front panel
positioned in the rabbet that encloses the display opening; a rear
panel positioned in the rabbet in a stack with the transparent
front panel; and a spacer apparatus comprising: a first elongate
member having a first locking tab protruding therefrom; a second
elongate member having a second locking tab protruding therefrom;
the spacer apparatus positioned in the rabbet so that: (1) the
first locking tab extends into the first groove; and (2) the second
locking tab extends into the second groove, thereby locking the
spacer apparatus and the stack in the rabbet.
47. The frame apparatus according to claim 46 wherein the spacer
apparatus further comprises a third elongate member and a fourth
elongate member; and wherein the first, second, third, and fourth
elongate members collectively define an annular spacer frame.
48. The frame apparatus according to claim 46 wherein the first and
second grooves are located on opposite sides of the display opening
and wherein each of the first and second grooves are portions of a
continuous annular groove formed in the wall of the rabbet.
49. The frame apparatus according to claim 46 wherein the first
elongate member extends along a first axis that is substantially
parallel to a first segment of the annular display frame that
comprises the first groove and the second elongate member extends
along a second axis that is substantially parallel to a second
segment of the annular display frame that comprises the second
groove.
50. The frame apparatus according to claim 49 wherein the first
axis of the first elongate member extends substantially parallel to
the first groove and the second axis of the second elongate member
extends substantially parallel to the second groove.
51. The frame apparatus according to claim 46 wherein the first
elongate member comprises a first pair of spaced-apart notches
defining a first latch therebetween, the first latch comprising the
first locking tab.
52. The frame apparatus according to claim 46 wherein the spacer
apparatus is in surface contact with but not affixed to the rear
panel.
53. A frame apparatus for displaying an article, the frame
apparatus comprising: an annular display frame having an inner
surface defining a display opening, the annular display frame
comprising a rabbet defined by a floor and a wall of the annular
frame; a transparent front panel positioned in the rabbet that
encloses the display opening; a rear panel positioned in the rabbet
in a stack with the transparent front panel; a spacer apparatus
comprising a hanger element configured to allow the frame apparatus
to be hung from a vertical surface; the spacer apparatus positioned
in the rabbet and locking the stack in the rabbet.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/200,184, filed Aug. 3, 2015,
the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to frames, and
specifically to frame apparatus for displaying an article.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] People often like to commemorate their achievements by
framing diplomas and medals. Furthermore, people enjoy framing
photographs, posters and other types of photographic media for
display on the wall in their homes. People also frame certain types
of memorabilia in order to display the memorabilia and protect it
against damage that may occur over time as a result of the
memorabilia being exposed to the ambient environment.
[0004] There are many different types of frames that currently
exist for the purpose of displaying the item retained within the
frame and protecting the item against damage. Frames come in a wide
variety of sizes, colors, textures and finishes. Furthermore,
frames can be used with matting that surrounds a smaller photo or
item to enhance the aesthetics of the framed photo or item.
Alternately, frames may be constructed such that they have
transparent front and rear glazings. This permits a framed photo or
item to appear as if it is floating within the frame.
[0005] One problem with existing frames is that they generally
require a backing and additional mounting clips to retain the
backing in the frame. Multiple clips are usually required to
adequately secure the backing. These clips require assembly, add
manufacturing cost, and are frequently prone to breakage. A simpler
frame apparatus that has fewer components, is easier to assemble,
and is more robust is therefore desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Exemplary embodiments according to the present disclosure
are directed to a frame apparatus for displaying an article, the
frame apparatus comprising an annular display frame having an inner
surface defining a display opening, the annular display frame
comprising a rabbet defined by a floor and a wall of the annular
frame, the wall of the rabbet comprising a first engagement portion
and a second engagement portion. The frame apparatus further
comprises a transparent front panel positioned in the rabbet that
encloses the display opening, a rear panel positioned in the rabbet
in a stack with the transparent front panel, and an annular spacer
frame having an inner surface defining a central opening, the
annular spacer frame positioned in the rabbet. The first and second
engagement portions engage the annular spacer frame to lock the
annular spacer frame and the stack in the rabbet.
[0007] In one aspect, the invention can be a frame apparatus for
displaying an article, the frame apparatus comprising an annular
display frame having an inner surface defining a display opening,
the annular display frame comprising a rabbet defined by a floor
and a wall of the annular frame, a first groove in the wall of the
rabbet, and a second groove in the wall of the rabbet. The frame
apparatus further comprises a transparent front panel positioned in
the rabbet that encloses the display opening, a rear panel
positioned in the rabbet in a stack with the transparent front
panel, and a spacer apparatus. The spacer apparatus comprises a
first elongate member having a first locking tab protruding
therefrom and a second elongate member having a second locking tab
protruding therefrom. The spacer apparatus is positioned in the
rabbet so that the first locking tab extends into the first groove
and the second locking tab extends into the second groove, thereby
locking the spacer apparatus and the stack in the rabbet.
[0008] In another aspect, the invention can be a frame apparatus
for displaying an article, the frame apparatus comprising an
annular display frame having an inner surface defining a display
opening, the annular display frame comprising a rabbet defined by a
floor and a wall of the annular frame. The frame apparatus further
comprises a transparent front panel positioned in the rabbet that
encloses the display opening, a rear panel positioned in the rabbet
in a stack with the transparent front panel, and a spacer apparatus
comprising a hanger element configured to allow the frame apparatus
to be hung from a vertical surface. The spacer apparatus is
positioned in the rabbet and locks the stack in the rabbet.
[0009] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will
become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter.
It should be understood that the detailed description and specific
examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the
invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The following detailed description of the exemplary
embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with
the appended drawings. It should be understood, however, that the
invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and
instrumentalities shown in the following figures:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a frame apparatus in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of area III of FIG. 2;
[0014] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of area IV of FIG. 2;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the frame apparatus of FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI A-VI A
of FIG. 5;
[0017] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI B-VI B
of FIG. 5;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of a frame apparatus
according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
7;
[0020] FIG. 9 is another rear perspective view of the frame
apparatus of FIG. 7;
[0021] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of area X of FIG. 9;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a rear view of the frame apparatus of FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII
A-XII A of FIG. 11;
[0024] FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view taken along line XII
B-XII B of FIG. 11;
[0025] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of a frame apparatus in
accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
13;
[0027] FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of area XV of FIG. 14;
[0028] FIG. 16 is a rear view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
13;
[0029] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XVII-XVII
of FIG. 16;
[0030] FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of area XVIII of FIG. 13;
[0031] FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the annular spacer
frame of FIG. 13;
[0032] FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of a frame apparatus
according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
20;
[0034] FIG. 22 is a rear view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
20;
[0035] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line
XXIII-XXIII of FIG. 22;
[0036] FIG. 24 is an enlarged view of area XXIV of FIG. 20;
[0037] FIG. 25 is a rear perspective view of the annular spacer
frame of FIG. 20;
[0038] FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of a frame apparatus
according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 27 is an exploded view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
26;
[0040] FIG. 28 is a rear view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
26;
[0041] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXIX-XXIX
of FIG. 28;
[0042] FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of area XXX of FIG. 29;
[0043] FIG. 31 is a rear perspective view of the annular spacer
frame of FIG. 26;
[0044] FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view of a frame apparatus
according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 33 is a rear view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
32;
[0046] FIG. 34 is a rear perspective view of the annular spacer
frame of FIG. 32;
[0047] FIG. 35 is a rear perspective view of a frame apparatus
according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention;
[0048] FIG. 36 is an exploded view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
35;
[0049] FIG. 37 is a rear view of the frame apparatus of FIG.
35;
[0050] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view taken along line
XXXVIII-XXXVIII of FIG. 37;
[0051] FIG. 39 is an enlarged view of area XXXIX of FIG. 38;
[0052] FIG. 40 is a rear perspective view of the annular spacer
frame of FIG. 35;
[0053] FIG. 41 is an exploded view of a frame apparatus according
to an eighth embodiment of the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XLII-XLII
of the frame apparatus of FIG. 41;
[0055] FIG. 43 is an exploded view of a frame apparatus according
to a ninth embodiment of the present invention; and
[0056] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XLIV-XLIV
of the frame apparatus of FIG. 43.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0057] The description of illustrative embodiments according to
principles of the present invention is intended to be read in
connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be
considered part of the entire written description. In the
description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any
reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for
convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit
the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as "lower,"
"upper," "horizontal," "vertical," "above," "below," "up," "down,"
"left," "right," "top" and "bottom" as well as derivatives thereof
(e.g., "horizontally," "downwardly," "upwardly," etc.) should be
construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown
in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for
convenience of description only and do not require that the
apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation
unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as "attached,"
"affixed," "connected," "coupled," "interconnected," and similar
refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached
to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening
structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or
relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the
features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference
to the preferred embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly
should not be limited to such preferred embodiments illustrating
some possible non-limiting combinations of features that may exist
alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the
invention being defined by the claims appended hereto.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 1, a rear perspective view of a frame
apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The
exemplary embodiment may be a so-called "float frame" or may be a
conventional picture frame. As best shown in FIG. 2, the exemplary
embodiment comprises an annular display annular display frame 110,
a transparent front panel 130, a rear panel 140, and an annular
spacer frame 150. A display article, such as a photograph, a piece
of paper, a poster, a sports jersey, or another article that is
sought to be displayed, may be placed between the transparent front
panel 130 and the rear panel 140. As will be described in greater
detail below, the annular spacer frame 150 engages the annular
display annular display frame 110 and applies pressure to the rear
panel 140, forcing the rear panel against the transparent front
panel 130, which is in turn forced against the annular display
annular display frame 110 such that a display article may be
captured between the transparent front panel 130 and the rear panel
140. The combination of the transparent front panel 130 and the
rear panel 140 forms a stack. The stack need not be limited to a
single transparent front panel 130 and a single rear panel 140, but
may also include additional panels. Thus, it is possible to create
an embodiment where there are three or more layers in the
stack.
[0059] In the preferred embodiment, the transparent front panel 130
is clear. The transparent front panel 130 may be composed of any
material, but is most preferably made of glass, polystyrene,
acrylic, plexiglass, polycarbonate, or any other clear material
suitable for framing purposes. The rear panel 140 may also be made
of glass, polystyrene, acrylic, plexiglass, polycarbonate, or any
other clear material suitable for framing purposes. In yet other
embodiments, the rear panel 140 may be made of an opaque material
such as cardboard, cellulosic fiberboard, PVC, aluminum, or other
materials known in the art. The rear panel 140 need not be clear,
and may be either clear or transparent, depending on the desired
end product. In the event that the rear panel 140 is not desired to
be clear, it may also be translucent or painted or finished with
other materials such as paint or felt so that a pleasing texture is
achieved. If desired, more than two panels may be used as discussed
above. It is conceived that three or more panels may be used, and
any of them may be transparent, translucent, or opaque. Thus, it is
within the scope of the invention to have both the transparent
front panel 130 and the rear panel 140 be formed of a transparent
material and interpose one or more additional transparent,
translucent, or opaque layers between the transparent front panel
130 and the rear panel 140.
[0060] As will be discussed in greater detail below, the annular
display frame 110 may be constructed from extrusions of aluminum,
PVC, steel, or other materials capable of providing a rigid profile
and an aesthetically pleasing outward appearance. Generally the
annular display frame 110 is rectangular, but in some embodiments,
it may be formed as a square, and all four segments would be of
equal length. The annular spacer frame 110 is formed of four
segments, each segment being an extruded component having an
identical cross-sectional profile. The annular spacer frame 110 is
formed with two short segments 191, 192 and two long segments 193,
194. These four segments 191-194 form a closed perimeter. The
segments 191-194 are cut such that each corner has a 45 degree
miter or are cut at 90 degrees and one length is butted against the
other. Other ways of forming the ends of the segments are also
conceived of, as would be apparent to one of skill in the art. The
lengths of material may be joined by a corner bracket, which is
preferably made of stamped steel and dimensioned such that the
corner bracket fits within the extruded profile of the lengths of
material. The corner bracket engages two adjacent lengths of
material, forming a finished edge without gaps. In alternate
embodiments the corner brackets may be made of plastic, aluminum,
or the like. In yet other embodiments, such as those discussed in
greater detail below, the frame may be formed as a single piece, or
may be constructed of wood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF),
plastic, or other materials and joined using nails, screws,
staples, adhesive, welding, molding, or the like. These embodiments
do not require corner brackets. Other processes may be used to form
the annular display frame 110, as would be apparent to one of skill
in the art. In certain other embodiments the annular display frame
110 may be an oval, a polygon, or any other shape desired.
[0061] The annular display frame 110 generally comprises a front
surface 112 and a rear surface 114. The front surface 112 is the
surface of the annular display frame 110 that is typically visible
to a user while the frame apparatus 100 is hanging from a wall or
other surface. The rear surface 114 abuts the wall or other surface
when the frame apparatus 100 is made to hang therefrom. The annular
display frame 110 also has an inner surface 116 which defines a
display opening 117. The inner surface 116 extends in a direction
substantially perpendicular to the front surface 112, but may also
be at an angle such that the inner surface 116 has either an inward
or outward taper when viewed from the front surface 112 of the
annular display frame 110. This may be used to enhance the
aesthetic appeal of the frame apparatus 100. The inner surface 116
is adjacent to a rabbet 118 which is defined by a floor 120 and a
wall 122 of the annular display frame 110. The rabbet 118 is formed
so that the transparent front panel 130 will fit within the rabbet
118 but can only be removed from the rear surface 114 of the
annular display frame 110. This provides a pleasing aesthetic
appearance when viewed from the front surface 112 and prevents
unintended removal of the transparent front panel 130. In yet other
embodiments, the inner surface 116 need not be one formed of
planes, but instead may consist of castellations, fingers, curves,
or any other geometry. This may be desirable to produce an
ornamental appearance that is more ornate or fanciful to enhance
consumer appeal.
[0062] The display opening 117 formed by the inner surface 116 of
the annular display frame 110 may be divided into separate display
areas by one or more ornamental dividers, which are not shown in
the present embodiment. One ornamental divider may be used to
provide two separate display areas, or a pair of intersecting
ornamental dividers may be used to divide the display opening 117
into four separate display areas. Other configurations would be
apparent to one of skill in the art.
[0063] FIG. 5 shows a rear view of the first embodiment of the
frame apparatus 100. FIGS. 6A and 6B show cross-sectional views
which more clearly show the features of the rabbet 118 of the
annular display frame 110. As can be seen in FIG. 6A and 6B, the
inner surface 116 is located inward from the periphery of the
annular display frame 110, and the floor 120 is formed in a plane
parallel with the front surface 112 of the annular display frame
110. In the present embodiment, the floor 120 is formed by the
extrusion of the annular display frame 110. The extrusion profile
of the annular display frame 110 has an upturned lip 121 which
serves as the floor 120. However, in alternate embodiments, the
floor 120 may be formed as a flat surface instead of having the
upturned lip 121. Any structure suitable for providing planar
contact with the transparent front panel 130 can serve as a floor
120.
[0064] Surrounding the floor 120 is a wall 122. The wall 122 is
generally perpendicular to the front surface 112 such that it forms
the rabbet 118 and contains the transparent panel 130 such that the
transparent panel 130 drops into the rabbet 118 and prevents
significant in-plane motion of the transparent panel 130. Thus, the
transparent panel 130 can only be moved a small distance in a plane
parallel with the front surface 112. The wall 122 need not be a
continuous surface, and need only contain the transparent panel 130
within the annular display frame 110.
[0065] The wall 122 of the rabbet 118 has a first engagement
portion 170 and a second engagement portion 180 to retain the
annular spacer frame 150. In the present embodiment, the engagement
portions 170, 180 are formed as first and second grooves 171, 181
which are formed into the wall 122. The first groove 171 has a
first entry section 172 and a first receiving section 173. The
first entry section 172 extends generally parallel with the front
surface 112 of the annular display frame 110, while the first
receiving section 173 extends generally perpendicular to the front
surface 112. The first entry section 172 may extend at an angle to
the front surface 112, but may not be perpendicular to the front
surface 112. Similarly, the first receiving section 173 may extend
at an angle other than perpendicular to the front surface 112, but
may not be parallel to the front surface 112. The engagement
portions 170, 180 extend along the entirety of the length of their
respective segments. However, in alternate embodiments the
engagement portions 170, 180 may only be formed along part of the
length of their respective segments.
[0066] The first entry section 172 has a first engagement surface
174 facing toward the floor 120 of the rabbet 118. The first
engagement surface 174 forms one wall of the first groove 171, but
does not need to be co-planar with the floor 120 of the rabbet 118.
The first engagement surface 174 must only face toward the floor
120 of the rabbet 118, so considerable deviations from parallel are
permissible. In certain embodiments, an angle may facilitate
interlocking and retention of the annular spacer frame 150. The
first receiving section 173 has a first locking surface 175 that is
non-parallel to the first engagement surface 174. This provides a
feature whereby the annular spacer frame 150 can interlock and
cannot be easily withdrawn. However, in some embodiments the
locking surface 175 may be omitted.
[0067] The second groove 181 has a corresponding second entry
section 182 and a corresponding receiving section 183 which are
identical to the first entry section 172 and the first receiving
section 173. The second entry section 182 has a second engagement
surface 184 forming one wall of the second groove 181, the second
entry section 182 facing the floor of the rabbet 118. Once again,
there is no requirement that the second engagement surface 184 be
co-planar with the floor 120 of the rabbet 118. The second
receiving section 183 has a second locking surface 185 that is
non-parallel to the second engagement surface 184. In other
embodiments the first and second grooves 171, 181 are not
identical. As can be seen in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the grooves 171, 181
are formed as openings in an extruded material rather than milled
out of a solid block of material. In yet other embodiments, there
may be three or more grooves, and these grooves may be identical or
some grooves may be configured differently from other grooves to
prevent assembly in an incorrect orientation or to enhance cost
reduction or ease of assembly.
[0068] Turning to the annular spacer frame 150, which is shown in
the exploded view of FIG. 2, the annular spacer frame 150 engages
the annular display frame 110 so that it is positioned within the
rabbet 118 and secures the stack formed by the transparent front
panel 130 and the rear panel 140 in place. The annular spacer frame
150 prevents any rearward motion of the transparent front panel 130
or the rear panel 140, so that the display article is securely held
within the frame apparatus 100. The annular spacer frame 150 has an
inner surface 156 which defines a central opening 157, the inner
surface 156 being arranged substantially perpendicular to the front
surface 112 of the annular display frame 110. In alternate
embodiments, the inner surface 156 may be arranged at an angle such
that it tapers inward or outward from the perimeter of the annular
spacer frame 150, or may have a curvature or other non-planar
shape. In some embodiments, a groove may be formed into the inner
surface 156 to alter the rigidity of the annular spacer frame 150
or reduce manufacturing cost. The annular spacer frame 150 is
specifically designed to have a lower rigidity than the annular
display frame 110 so that it can be deformed to facilitate
assembly. Furthermore, the annular spacer frame 150 is designed to
be manufactured separately from the rear panel 140 and is not
affixed to the rear panel 140. Instead, the annular spacer frame is
placed in surface contact with the rear panel 140 without any
physical attachment.
[0069] Turning to FIGS. 3 and 4, the annular spacer frame 150 has a
first locking tab 152 and a second locking tab 154, the first
locking tab 152 being different from the second locking tab 154.
The first locking tab 152 is on an opposing side of the annular
spacer frame 150 from the second locking tab 154. There is also a
third locking tab 152A and a fourth locking tab 154A. In other
embodiments, there may be additional locking tabs which provide
additional retention for the annular spacer frame 150 or there may
be fewer locking tabs if adequate retention of the stack can be
obtained with one or two locking tabs. Generally the locking tabs
on a single elongate member of the annular spacer frame 150 all
have the same profile, but in some embodiments it may be desirable
to have locking tabs with different profiles on the same elongate
member of the annular spacer frame 150. In some embodiments, only
one locking tab is used on each side of the spacer frame 150. In
yet other embodiments, there may be locking tabs on three or more
sides of the annular spacer frame 150 or only one or two sides of
the annular spacer frame 150. It is conceived that locking tabs may
be arranged on adjacent sides of the annular spacer frame 150.
[0070] The first and third locking tabs 152, 152A of the annular
spacer frame 150 engage the first engagement portion 170 of the
annular display frame 110. The second and fourth locking tabs 154,
154A of the annular spacer frame 150 engage the second engagement
portion 180 of the annular display frame 110. This locks the
annular spacer frame 150 and the stack into the rabbet 118 of the
annular display frame 110. In the present embodiment, the locking
tabs 152, 152A are spaced apart from each other along the elongate
member and spaced apart from the ends of the elongate member.
Similarly, the locking tabs 154, 154A are spaced apart from each
other along the elongate member and spaced apart from the ends of
the elongate member. This helps to ensure even pressure is applied
to the stack and permits deflection of the annular spacer frame 150
to permit assembly. In embodiments where a single locking tab is
used per side, it is generally centered on the elongate member to
ensure even distribution of compression force on the stack.
However, in yet other embodiments, a single locking tab may be
arranged asymmetrically on the elongate member.
[0071] The first and third locking tabs 152, 152A protrude from the
outer surface 158 of the annular spacer frame 150. The outer
surface 158 is the peripheral edge of the annular spacer frame 150,
and is opposite the inner surface 156. The first and third locking
tabs 152, 152A have a first locking section 160 and a second
locking section 161. The first locking section 160 extends from the
outer surface 158 in an approximately perpendicular direction.
However, in other embodiments the first locking section 160 may
extend at any angle from the outer surface 158 that is non-parallel
to the outer surface 158. The second locking section 161 extends
from the first locking section 160 in a non-parallel direction,
facing toward the rear surface 114 of the annular display frame 110
when assembled. In the exemplary embodiment, the second locking
section 161 extends perpendicular from the first locking section,
but it may extend in any direction that is non-parallel to the
first locking section 160.
[0072] As can be seen in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the first and third
locking tabs 152, 152A extend into the first groove 171 and engage
the first engagement surface 174 of the annular display frame 110.
Specifically, the first locking section 160 engages the first
engagement surface 174 and the second locking section 161 engages
the first locking surface 175. The interaction of the second
locking section 161 with the first locking surface 175 prevents
motion of the annular spacer frame 150 in the plane defined by the
central opening 157. The interaction of the first locking section
160 with the first engagement surface 174 retains the annular
spacer frame 150 and the stack against the annular display frame
110 in the direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the
central opening 157. In other embodiments, the second locking
section 161 may be omitted, and movement in the plane defined by
the central opening 157 may be avoided by interaction between the
outer surface 158 of the annular spacer frame 150 with the wall 122
of the rabbet 118 of the annular display frame 110.
[0073] The second and fourth locking locking tabs 154, 154A of the
annular spacer frame 150 also protrude from the outer surface 158
of the annular spacer frame 150. The second and fourth locking tabs
154, 154A have a first locking section 164 which extends in a
non-parallel direction from the outer surface 158 of the annular
spacer frame 150. In the exemplary embodiment, there is no second
locking section, but a second locking section may be added to
improve retention of the second and fourth locking tabs 154, 154A
in the annular display frame 110. The first locking section 164 of
the second and fourth locking tabs 154, 154A engages the second
engagement portion 180 of the annular display frame 110.
Specifically, the first locking section 164 makes contact with the
second engagement surface 184. The first locking section 164 may
extend perpendicular to the outer surface 158 of the annular spacer
frame 150, or may extend at an angle that facilitates assembly or
enhances the compression applied by the annular spacer frame 150
against the stack, to prevent the display article from moving when
the frame apparatus 100 is handled.
[0074] As can be best seen in FIGS. 3, 4, 6A, and 6B, the annular
spacer frame 150 is also provided with gripping elements 165. The
gripping elements 165 are arranged on the annular spacer frame 150
so that they allow the user to easily flex the annular spacer frame
during assembly. The gripping elements 165 comprise a gripping tab
166 protruding from a rear surface 159 of the annular spacer frame
150. Each gripping tab 166 terminates in a distal surface 167, the
distal surface 167 being flush or depressed relative to a reference
plane defined by the rear surface 114 of the annular display frame
110. In the present embodiment, the gripping elements 165 are
located proximate the second and fourth locking tabs 154, 154A. In
alternate embodiments, the gripping elements 165 are placed
proximate all locking tabs, or placed in any location that permits
easy installation and removal of the annular spacer frame 150.
[0075] During assembly of the frame apparatus, the user places the
transparent front panel 130 into the rabbet 118 of the annular
display frame 110. The display article is placed onto the
transparent front panel 130, followed by the rear panel 140.
Finally, the first and third locking tabs 152, 152A of the annular
spacer frame 150 are engaged with the first engagement portion 170
of the annular display frame 110, inserting the second locking
section 161 into the first groove 171. The annular spacer frame 150
is then rotated such that the second locking section 161 engages
the first locking surface 175 and the first locking section 160
engages the first engagement surface 174. This causes a compression
force to be applied to the stack as the annular spacer frame 150
drops into the rabbet 118. The user then deflects the second and
fourth locking tabs 154, 154A using the gripping elements 165 and
inserts the first locking section 164 of the second and fourth
locking tabs 154, 154A into the second engagement portion 180 of
the annular display frame 110. As pressure on the gripping elements
165 is released, the annular spacer frame 150 relaxes and the
second and fourth locking tabs 154, 154A sit tightly in the second
engagement portion 180, with the first locking section 164 engaging
the second engagement surface 184. A further compression force is
applied by the second and fourth locking tabs 154, 154A as they
interact with the second engagement surface 184, which enhances the
compression of the stack to retain the display article. The fully
assembled state is known as the first state. The second state is
achieved when the annular spacer frame 150 is deflected such that
the second and fourth locking tabs 154, 154A are disengaged from
the second engagement portion 180. In alternate embodiments, the
first and third locking tabs 152, 152A may be disengaged from the
first engagement portion 170 to release the annular spacer frame
150 instead of the second and fourth locking tabs 154, 154A.
[0076] The compression forces applied by the annular spacer frame
150 as it interacts with the first and second engagement portions
170, 180 are the product of the locking tabs 152, 152A, 154, 154A
having an elasticity that functions as a spring. In alternate
embodiments, a separate spring feature may be formed on the annular
spacer frame 150 to provide the desired compression force. In yet
other embodiments, a portion of the annular display frame 110 may
provide the required compression force. In yet further embodiments,
a compressible material may be applied to one of the annular spacer
frame 150 or the annular display frame 110 to provide the required
compression force.
[0077] The annular spacer frame 150 is intended to have a lower
rigidity than the annular display frame 110 so that it is capable
of being deflected as it is installed into the annular display
frame. In this context, a component is said to have greater
rigidity when, for a given length, the component deflects less than
the component against which it is compared. Thus, the annular
spacer frame 150 is capable of deflecting more than the annular
display frame 110 when comparing elongate members of equal length.
It is intended that the annular spacer frame 150 of the frame
apparatus 100 be designed with a lower rigidity so that it can
always be deflected for easy assembly. This lower rigidity may be
obtained by materials selection (i.e. choosing a material that has
a lower stiffness for the annular spacer frame 150 than the
stiffness of the material used for the annular display frame 110)
or by design. In achieving the desired lower rigidity, it is
possible that the annular spacer frame 150 have features that
intentionally lower the rigidity of the annular spacer frame 150.
This intentional design may be used to selectively lower the
in-plane stiffness of the annular spacer frame 150 while not having
a lesser effect on the stiffness of the annular spacer frame 150 in
a direction perpendicular to the plane formed by the front surface
112 of the annular display frame 110. Thus, the stiffness may be
different in orthogonal directions, so that the annular spacer
frame 150 is easy to deflect to engage the locking tabs 152, 154,
but provides a strong compression force against the stack.
[0078] When the annular spacer frame 150 is installed into the
annular display frame 110, the floor 120 of the rabbet 118 conceals
the annular spacer frame 150 when the frame apparatus 100 is viewed
from the front surface 112 of the annular display frame 110. The
inner surface 156 of the annular spacer frame 150 is outwardly
offset from the inner surface 116 of the annular display frame 110
by an offset distance D. In some embodiments, the inner surface 156
is coplanar with the inner surface 116. In yet other embodiments,
the inner surface 156 is inwardly offset from the inner surface 116
of the annular display frame 110.
[0079] Furthermore, the annular spacer frame 150 has a thickness
which is less than the depth of the rabbet 118 so that the annular
spacer frame 150 is recessed from the rear surface 114 of the
annular display frame 110. This permits the frame apparatus 100 to
be hung on a wall or other vertical surface, with the rear surface
114 of the annular display frame 110 flush against the wall.
[0080] In the preferred embodiment, the annular spacer frame 150 is
integrally formed as a singular monolithic component. The annular
spacer frame 150 is most preferably injection molded, but may be
formed by other methods. This provides a sufficiently rigid
structure which may be manufactured cheaply, and improves the ease
of assembly. The annular spacer frame 150 is formed as a plurality
of elongate members which form the periphery of the annular spacer
frame 150. In alternate embodiments, the elongate members may be
formed as individual elongate members which are individually formed
and inserted into the annular display frame 110. In yet further
embodiments, the annular spacer frame 150 may be formed in separate
portions to avoid the need for unusually large injection mold tools
or other fabrication equipment.
[0081] In the exemplary embodiment, hanger elements 168 are
incorporated into the annular spacer frame 150 to permit hanging on
a nail, hook, or other device mounted on a wall or other surface.
The hanger elements 168 may be located on two adjacent sides of the
annular spacer frame 150 to permit mounting in a landscape or
portrait orientation, or may be included on all four sides for user
convenience. The hanger elements 168 are generally formed at the
midpoint of the elongate members so that the frame apparatus 100
will hang level. In yet other embodiments, the hangers 168 may be
omitted.
[0082] FIGS. 7 and 8 disclose a second embodiment of the frame
apparatus of the present invention. In an effort to avoid
duplicative disclosure, all features not specifically mentioned are
equivalent except as expressly disclosed. The frame apparatus 200
comprises an annular display annular display frame 210, a
transparent front panel 230, a rear panel 240, and an annular
spacer frame 250. The frame apparatus 200 functions in
substantially the same manner as the frame apparatus 100 discussed
above. The annular display frame 210 has a display opening 217
formed by the inner surface 216 of the annular display frame 210.
As best seen in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the annular display frame 210
also has a rabbet 218 which accepts the transparent front panel
230, the rear panel 240, and the annular spacer frame 250. Once
again, the rabbet 218 has a floor 220 and a wall 222. Within the
wall 222 is a first engagement portion 270 and a second engagement
portion 280.
[0083] As best seen in FIGS. 10, 12A, and 12B, the annular spacer
frame 250 has a corresponding set of first and third locking tabs
252, 252A and second and fourth locking tabs 254, 254A which engage
the first and second engagement portions 270, 280 of the annular
display opening. The first and third locking tabs 252, 252A have a
first locking section 260 and a second locking section 261 arranged
in a similar configuration to the locking tabs 152 of the annular
spacer frame 150 of the first embodiment. The second and fourth
locking tabs 254, 254A also have both a first locking section 264
and a second locking section 263, the second locking section
extending approximately parallel with the outer surface 258 of the
annular spacer frame 250. In other embodiments, the second locking
section 263 may extend at any angle which is non-parallel with the
first locking section 264. The second locking section 263 increases
the retention of the annular spacer frame 250 into the first and
second engagement portions 270, 280 to prevent accidental release
of the annular spacer frame 250.
[0084] The annular spacer 250 also has gripping elements 265
comprising gripping tabs 266 protruding from a rear surface 259 of
the annular spacer frame 250. In contrast with the gripping
elements 165 of the annular spacer 150 of the frame apparatus 100,
these gripping elements 265 also have slots 269 on either side of
the gripping tabs 266 which increase the flexibility of the second
and fourth locking tabs 254, 254A so that they can more easily be
inserted into the second engagement portion 280. Collectively, each
of the respective gripping elements 265 and the locking tabs 254,
254A form a latch mechanism when they are bordered by slots 269.
This is best shown in FIG. 10, which provides a detailed view of
the second locking tab 254. These latch mechanisms permit
individual locking of the second and fourth locking tabs 254, 254A
due to the additional flexibility afforded by the slots 269.
[0085] Turning to the third embodiment of the present invention,
the frame apparatus 300 disclosed in FIGS. 13-19 has an annular
display annular display frame 310, a transparent front panel 330, a
rear panel 340, and an annular spacer frame 350. The annular
display frame 310 has a display opening 317 formed by the inner
surface 316 of the annular display frame 310. The annular display
frame 310 also has a rabbet 318 which accepts the transparent front
panel 330, the rear panel 340, and the annular spacer frame 350.
Once again, the rabbet 318 has a floor 320 and a wall 322. Within
the wall 322 is a first engagement portion 370 and a second
engagement portion 380.
[0086] Details of the construction of the annular display frame 310
are shown in greater detail in FIGS. 13-15. The two short sides
391, 392 and the two long sides 393, 394 are connected by a corner
bracket 396. The corner bracket 396 may be crimped into place
within the extrusion to form a strong connection and results in a
very rigid annular display frame 310.
[0087] The annular spacer frame 350 is also constructed so that it
has a first locking tab 352 and a second locking tab 354 provided
on opposite elongate members. The annular spacer frame 350 is
constructed in two pieces. In addition, the annular spacer frame
has third locking tabs 355 located on perpendicular elongate
members, such that all four sides engage the annular display frame
310.
[0088] The first, second, and third locking tabs 352, 354, 355 are
curved so as to apply a spring pressure on the stack, and may
deflect to accommodate differing thicknesses of display articles.
The locking tabs 352, 354, 355 of this embodiment are identically
formed, and have only a single first locking section 360 which
engages the first engagement surface 374 of the engagement portion
370. The gripping elements 365 are integrally formed with the first
locking section 360, such that a latch mechanism is formed in by
the C-shaped curvature of the locking tabs 352, 354, 355 and the
gripping elements 365, and no additional features are required to
provide the user with a gripping area to engage or disengage the
latch mechanism. This design also provides the necessary
compression force, requiring no additional geometry. Individual
engagement of each of the locking tabs 352, 354, 355 is possible
due to the flexibility inherent in the C-shaped curvature.
[0089] Turning to FIGS. 20-25, a fourth embodiment of the frame
apparatus 400 is shown. The present embodiment differs from the
first embodiment in that it has a different design for the annular
spacer frame 450. The annular spacer frame 450 has locking tabs 452
having a first locking section 460 which are formed with a straight
profile. Furthermore, not all of the locking tabs 452 are
identical, with some having a greater length than others. The first
locking section 460 protrudes at a slight upward incline to
pre-load the annular spacer frame 450 against the stack when
assembled. The first locking section 460 may also incorporate ribs
or other features designed to crush to enhance assembly. In other
embodiments, there may be serrations designed to catch on the
engagement portions 470 and permit adjustment of the desired
compression. As with the frame apparatus 200, the locking tabs 452
are bordered by slots 469 which reduce the amount of force required
to deflect the locking tabs 452 during installation. These may be
omitted in alternate embodiments. In the present embodiment, six
locking tabs 452 and six gripping elements 465 are used to ensure
adequate pressure against the stack with a sufficiently even
distribution to prevent movement of the display article.
[0090] In a fifth embodiment of the frame apparatus 500 as shown in
FIGS. 26-31, the annular spacer frame 550 is constructed with four
locking tabs 552 and four gripping elements 565. Further, there are
no slots because the annular spacer frame 550 has been designed to
permit deflection during installation without requiring excessive
force. This embodiment is directed toward smaller frames that
require fewer locking tabs 552 to apply even pressure to the stack.
In some embodiments the number of locking tabs 552 and the number
of gripping elements 565 may not be equal, and they may not be
located proximate each other along the elongate members.
[0091] Of particular note, the annular display frame 510 has an
engagement portion 570 which is formed a simple groove having only
an entry section 572 having a first engagement surface 574. There
is no locking section because it is not required to provide the
desired level of retention and compression force. Furthermore, the
annular display frame 510 is formed of a solid material rather than
an extrusion.
[0092] Turning now to FIGS. 32-34, the frame apparatus 600 has an
annular spacer frame 650 which has only two locking tabs 652 and
two gripping elements 665.
[0093] FIGS. 35-39 show a seventh embodiment of the frame apparatus
700. The annular spacer frame 750 is composed of a first, second,
third, and fourth spacer bar 786-789. The spacer bars 786-789 may
be constructed of wood, MDF, or another rigid material, and may
also have a second material applied thereto which has a lower
elasticity such that is readily capable of compression. The second
material serves as the locking tabs 752, applying pressure to the
stack to retain the display article. The spacer bars 786-789 each
have a locking tab 752 which holds the spacer bars 786-789 in
place, engaging the engagement portions 770. The locking tabs 752
may be constructed of foam, and may be applied to the spacer bars
786-789 with adhesive, mechanical fasteners such as nails or
staples, or other methods known in the art.
[0094] The rear panel 740 of the present embodiment differs from
the rear panel of other embodiments because it incorporates a
hanger element 768 attached to a rear face 741 of the rear panel
140. This hanger element 768 permits hanging of the frame apparatus
700, and is located near the center of the rear panel 740 so that
it is covered by the article to be displayed when in use,
preventing it from being seen in the event that the rear panel 740
is a transparent or translucent material. The hanger element 768
may be attached by ultrasonic welding, adhesive, integral molding,
or the like. The hanger element 768 further incorporates mounting
features 742 so that the frame apparatus 700 may be hung in a
portrait orientation or a landscape orientation. In alternate
embodiments, two or more mounting features 742 may be incorporated.
Additional hanger elements may also be provided on the annular
spacer frame 750.
[0095] The embodiment of the frame apparatus 800 shown in FIGS. 41
and 42 is an alternate configuration for engaging the annular
spacer frame 850 with the annular display frame 810. In this
embodiment, the locking tabs 852 are provided on the annular
display frame 810, and there is no engagement portion provided in
the annular display frame 810. Effectively, the arrangement of the
locking tabs 852 is reversed from the other embodiments. The
annular spacer frame 850 may be constructed with any cross section
which enables it to engage with the locking tabs 852. This may
include a profile which is a continuous rectangular profile as
shown in FIG. 42.
[0096] The locking tabs 852 protrude outward from the wall 822 of
the rabbet 818. The locking tabs 852 are formed as a first locking
section 860 having an insertion aid 876 formed on the top surface
877. The insertion aid 876 is designed to reduce the force required
to insert the annular spacer frame 850. The annular spacer frame
850 is then captured underneath the locking tab 852 and compressed
against the stack. The locking tabs 852 are designed to apply the
required compression by design, and may extend outward from the
wall 822 at any angle that is non-parallel with the wall 822. In
some embodiments, the locking tabs 852 may be formed as a
triangular protrusion, and may have additional features to increase
the flexibility of the locking tabs 852 without compromising the
rigidity of the annular display frame 810. In this embodiment, the
annular spacer frame 850 still has a rigidity which is lower than
the annular display frame 810, but in other embodiments it is
contemplated that the annular spacer frame 850 may have a similar
or greater rigidity, and may rely on the deflection of the locking
tabs 852 alone to assemble the frame apparatus 800.
[0097] In a ninth embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 43 and
44, the frame apparatus 900 has locking tabs 952 which protrude
from the annular display frame 910. As with the frame apparatus
800, the annular spacer frame 950 does not have locking tabs or
other engagement feature, and is substantially constructed as a
continuous profile. The locking tabs 952 have a first locking
section 960 extending in a non-parallel direction from the wall 922
of the rabbet 918. The locking tabs 952 further have a retention
feature 978 which extends downward toward the floor 920 of the
rabbet 918. These retention features 978 engage v-shaped receiving
features 979 formed on the annular spacer frame 950. The retention
features 978 and the receiving features 979 interlock to further
enhance the retention of the annular spacer frame 950 and maintain
the desired compression on the stack, preventing movement of the
display article.
[0098] While the invention has been described with respect to
specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying
out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
there are numerous variations and permutations of the above
described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other
embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional
modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the
present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention
should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended
claims.
* * * * *